MRI Flashcards
What is MRI?
Interactions between a magnet and water
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, which utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within the body.
What is the primary element in MRI active hydrogen?
Has 1 proton
This characteristic of hydrogen makes it particularly useful in MRI since it is abundant in water and biological tissues.
What are the main concerns associated with MRI?
Biological effects:
* Acoustic noise
* Peripheral nerve stimulation
These concerns arise from the strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency energy used in MRI scans.
How does magnetic field strength affect MRI scanners?
Louder the scanner
Higher magnetic field strengths can lead to increased acoustic noise during imaging.
What are the advantages of MRI?
- No ionizing radiation
- Multi-planar imaging
- Non-invasive diagnostic test
- Soft tissue contrast
These advantages make MRI a preferred choice in various medical imaging scenarios.
What are the limitations of MRI?
- Expensive
- Takes time to acquire images
- Claustrophobic
- Noisy
- Risk of hearing loss in patients
These factors can limit the use of MRI in certain patient populations or medical situations.
What are the variants of magnetic fields in MRI?
- Static
- Time
- Radiofrequency
Each type of magnetic field plays a distinct role in the functioning of MRI.
What is a static magnetic field in MRI?
This is always on
The static magnetic field is crucial for aligning the hydrogen nuclei in the body.
What are some biological effects of static magnetic fields?
Prosthetic hazards
Patients with certain implanted medical devices may face risks during an MRI due to the strong magnetic fields.
What is the protocol regarding metal in the MRI scan room?
No metal to be taken into MRI scan room unless deemed MRI safe
This precaution is essential to prevent accidents and ensure patient safety during the scan.